20 Simple Rules to Own Less Stuff | Minimalism & Simple Living

[@SimpleHappyZen]

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[@charlottea.9642]

Great tips! Sometimes, I can tell that I'm desperately looking for something to buy (due to stress, boredom, frustration, you name it). When that happens, I allow myself some wiggle room and either buy a cute sticker or two (that I will eventually use and that occupy virtually no space) or I buy a new tea flavor or something that I will definitely consume within a couple of weeks. That approach is to be used carefully, obviously, but it does help me avoid bigger purchases on occasion.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's such a good point, thank you for making it! I can actually relate since I do it too :) Buying a new tea or something, or even looking up a new recipe to make. :)

[@elainefuneralformyfatt1134]

Great idea

[@Bessie66]

What a fab idea

[@lorimcbrayer8431]

Why think of purchasing something at all ??? Spend time watching different things on KZbin. I have been watching trials and interrogations on KZbin and they are very interesting.

[@joelandchristellepenner5758]

Thanks for sharing that!😁

[@denisecarpenter2981]

I like to take pictures with my phone of beautiful things I want instead of buying them. I go back and look at them and enjoy that. It feels like I “own” them. And if I really still want it later on, I can get it but I usually forget about it after capturing it in a photo.

[@joelandchristellepenner5758]

Really good idea!

[@MrsMessalina]

Vera, you are like a ray of sunshine!! The way you speak is so calming for my mental health, 😍I love your videos and the tips you share.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you so much, that's nice to hear 🤗☀️❤

[@feanorian21maglor38]

Great tips. Gift giving and receiving is a bit of an issue for us. My husband and I stopped giving each other stuff for gifts long ago. For birthdays, we go out to our favourite restaurant. We've never bought into the whole silly Valentine's thing, so we don't even exchange Valentine cards. and for Christmas presents, we try to arrange an experience together, like a couples massage or a weekend away with a cookery class. We prefer to save up and spend our money on experiences not clutter for the home. I have tried to get the whole family onboard, but it doesn't work! So our children and parents receive items as gifts, though we also gift experiences or things they can consume, such as tea or hot chocolate assortments, wine or food hampers. The truth is that as a family, we are very privileged to be in the position not to really need anything, so it's not even easy to think of appropriate gifts. The big occasions are about getting together for a nice meal, catching up, and playing silly games. That's what makes the memories.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So true! :) Thanks for sharing 🌱🤗

[@goodwin.the.wizard]

Love your videos for their calming atmosphere! You always make my day a bit nicer 🙂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you, that's so lovely to hear 🌷🤗🌱

[@onimendez7735]

💯 agree! 💕

[@sl9906]

Totally agree! So soothing and full of great advice too.

[@cat999991]

Vera, your soft gentle flexible way of minimizing/simplifying inspires me. Plus your delivery is always relaxing. I am trying to use things up. I am also giving things away that don't serve me well. And then having new purchases be more thought out. It seems that much of life is better lived with at least some kind of a plan. 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much, and I'm happy to hear those strategies are working well for you too! :)

[@stephaniechavira2924]

This is all new to me! I came across these kinds of videos about a week ago and we just opened a restaurant about 7 months ago so I am trying to make less work for myself at home so I can have a more relaxing peaceful home to come home to at the end of a stressful day! Thank you for sharing!

[@xenavo6495]

I love all your videos, Vera. You have really inspired me to own less stuff and live a simple, meaningful life that’s worth living. I can be truly happy with less items, and it is a blessing that I’ve come across your channel! Sending love❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you!! Happy for you! 🤗💕🌱

[@lizzabbott]

I recently helped my daughter with her major, out-of-state move. Her home was never cluttered. But she did have a couple large closets that became stuffed to the brim over time. Ditto some pretty full cupboards. A lot of new stuff had come in over recent years,, what with her getting married & having a baby. So boy did they ever purge a lot right before this move !! Several trips to donation cntrs , facebook posts about free stuff available to pick up ( including furniture) , items to a consignment shop, & yepp … more than usual garbage thrown out that last week B4 the move. And I bet they wouldn't mind letting go of even more ! So I am filling my own donation boxes at my home now, giving things away , & listing things to sell. I declutter pretty faithfully & yet … could def declutter more !! So I am !

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow that sounds like so much progress!! Amazing :)

[@Marijuuh]

Ik kijk inmiddels al een tijdje naar je video’s en heb tot nu toe nog niet gereageerd. Maar vandaag vond ik het moment , je hebt mij enorm geïnspireerd. Na 2,5 week door al mijn spullen gegaan te zijn kan ik nu enorm genieten van mijn huisje en de spullen die ik graag om mij heen wil hebben. Ga zo door, je hebt er een volger bij 😌

[@carlienvandernet7902]

I really have to start again with decluttering. I made a big start, got rid of a load of stuff, but then I got health issues and the decluttering started to fade away. I still do get rid of small bits and pieces, but I really should start with the big projects again. I’m procrastinating to do the bedroom and closets and also the kitchen should be done again after changing to induction cooking. And there is still a big project to be done in my craftroom 😅.

[@gretchendoyle8489]

I’m constantly looking around for things to declutter, but lately I’ve been doing a big cleanout. I was watching Hoarders and felt envious of having a big dumpster to just toss stuff in. I thought of getting one myself but decided I’d feel guilty about not donating. But I’m still imagining I have one. I think, “do I really want to just toss this in the dumpster and never think about it again?” If the answer is yes, then into the trash or donation box. So that’s my tip. Imagine having a dumpster.

[@pinkroses135]

😂 If that's where you're at in life and it's what you gotta do to have a peaceful home go for it. Especially if it's a basement, garage, closet learning lesson thing.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha that's actually an interesting question to use! :) And I think we've all felt like wanting to just chuck things into a dumpster hahaha :) So if you would, then that's a good indication :)

[@mrs.rowland5184]

Tip #3 was really IT. I knew the version of "it is was ruined, would you be relieved to let I go?" -- but in all honesty, most of the time I actually cannot separate this from the guilt of having ruining it 😅😅 even theoretically 😅😅 (HSP here, yay 😂) By imagining the objects as desappearing from my life **not by my fault** everything was just so clear, and the list of things I discovered I wanted to declutter expanded immensely. THANK YOU, from an HSP that wants decluttering for increasing peace of mind and loving what I *truly* love about my possessions ❤

[@gwenj5419]

One way I limit my buying is by limiting the brands I buy. For example, I only have one brand of shoes and purses that I will buy. I've found they work well for me and it stops me looking at any purses or shoes in stores. Shoes and purses used to be big temptation for me.

[@lsamoa]

Oh, same for me and shoes!

[@StellaM22]

This!!! I do this. It reduces stress and makes shopping so easy.

[@lisbethskaalum3680]

I love, love, love your videos. Your advice make so much sense. I am guilty of almost all of the habits you address. Which explains why my home is too small. Greetings from Lisbeth (62) Denmark 🇩🇰

[@joannpartin-qc8yc]

Thank you for this helpful video! I’m now in the process of purging stuff & I’m pleased. I want my home to be calm & simplistic.

[@ashleycomer8451]

Love the portrait of Daenerys Targaryen! Well done, especially for a first! :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ahw thanks!!! :) Glad someone at least recognized who I made the portrait of haha

[@carolwright2703]

I'm a fairly new subscriber and I really enjoy the peaceful vibe of your channel, Vera. It's so relaxing to watch while I'm having my herbal tea. :) My home is pretty pared down, but I've noticed I have a weak spot for seasonal decor. I've started asking myself, "where is this going to go?" And because it will only be put out to enjoy for a few months, "do I really want to have to store this for most of the year?" It has helped me curb my purchases. Thank you for all your great ideas! :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Carol for your kind comment! 🤗🌷 "Do I really want to have to store this for most of the year?" is a great question! Sometimes we only think of the initial cost of purchasing the item, but we don't consider the 'cost' of having to store it the rest of the year :)

[@deedsh6280]

Excellent video, all great tips. But a special thank you for including #4. It may be a classic, but it was also the one that was least intimidating to me when I started my declutter journey. It is a very doable baby step that at least feels like 'first do no harm'. Then it's less of a leap to gaining the mental strength to start getting rid of things or deciding your wants are not your needs can evolve. Thank you so much.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy you enjoyed the video and that you enjoyed hearing #4! It's definitely one of the more easily accessible ones, and it has been valuable for me during different stages of my life, including right now with my wardrobe :)

[@merandasomnolentgamer8323]

One of the ways I use my wishlist is that I reference it when sales and coupons come up. If I want to shop a sale or use a coupon, it has to be an item from my wishlist!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah that's clever! And a good way to take advantage of sales :)

[@Georgiajafa]

I definitely am an outfit repeater. One time the guy who works at my local supermarket asked me “is that the only outfit you own?” 🫠

[@flonotflow]

Agree with so many of these tips. I've never understood not wearing the same outfit twice, if I find something works, I'll wear it over and over again! We recently had our kitchen remodeled and in the packing up stage, I got rid of a lot, using a lot of the same rules, especially the duplicates. I did some more decluttering when I moved back in and I've reached a really great point where everything has a place, it's not a danger to get things out of cupboards, things are easy to find and most everything is getting used on a regular basis. I did replace a few things that were worn out and treated myself to a few new things that I knew would be useful, but other than that, I'm happy with the things I kept.

[@jlewis364]

This info is so helpful for where I am at in my decluttering journey. I had become stuck, but want to go further. These new thoughts are already breaking down those walls keeping me stuck! Thank you!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear it!! :) Have a wonderful day

[@NintenJon64]

Really like how relaxing your channel is. I think there’s just something about the INFJ personality type that makes us tend to declutter and keep our spaces orderly and clean. I’ve been applying much of this since I was a child and never really put too much thought into why I was that way until now as an adult. Also, that’s a beautiful entertainment center and living room at 7:07! As a gamer, I love what looks to be the PS5 and Nintendo Switch there as well. 😂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I love it!! :) Haha always nice to meet a fellow gamer :) It's one of our happy places in the house haha

[@susannee.colella6109]

Yes for the candle. I too love candles and have just a few that I swap out

[@Bessie66]

I find that buying the best kitchen items I can afford has saved me lots buy not repeat buying as they last longer

[@Audrey.17]

With #7. … it’s interesting - I am kinda going through something with this one. So, going shopping used to be quite an activity / time filler for me years ago. I notice that I replaced it with honing in on seasonal decor and really streamlining it. I did work on streamlining my clothes and shoes too. I feel like I am done with streamlining my holiday decor. And now- I miss shopping and bringing in new items to my home or my wardrobe. But - I don’t have a spot for the Knick knack. And the clothes… I feel like I have everything I need. So, I watch a ton of holiday decor videos, especially people that are showing what is in the stores. And I watch some fashion type videos too. I guess what I am saying is that I miss shopping, but also know it is a hobby I do not want to go back to. It’s boring and wasteful. My idea is to use my creativity with seasonal “stuff” towards maybe a seasonal tea. Or maybe making an easy seasonal dessert. I do try to bring nature into the home too. That helps too.

[@7Write4This9Heart7]

I had that same Studio Chibli sheet music book! Haha! So cool! For impulse buys, I bookmark it on my browser, and if I haven't looked at it or thought about it in a while, I take it off 'cause I don't need it! 99.9% of the time, that's how it goes! It's great! Means I save a shit ton of money! lol.

[@JasmineBrownOttawa]

Vera, congratulations on the Get Organized conference! That is very exciting. I will check out the links to that for sure.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks!! :) See you there!

[@shannond.9346]

Such a great list of tips! Some of them I was already using but the one that really struck me, and that was immediately helpful, was number 9, see if there is something you can use that you already have instead of purchasing something new. As someone that loves to sew, among other hobbies, when I see new patterns and /or fabric I think ooh pretty! I had a couple patterns in an online cart, but when I heard tip 9, i went to my pattern stash and found lovely patterns i hadn't used yet and some quite similar to what was in the cart! Delete cart! I am going to make a practice of reviewing the wonderful things i have before making any purchases. Thank you, Vera!

[@wholeplantfoodgal5134]

Your videos really inspire me. Thank you!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you, glad to hear it :)

[@mindbodyhome102]

OMG the "just in case" one hits home. Also important when traveling and packing lighter! I am on a buying hiatus and made a vow to not purchase any personal care products until I use up what I have.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Good point about packing light with traveling :)

[@duvessa2003]

Thank you for the ongoing inspiration 🌸

[@onimendez7735]

Hi Vera! Always very glad to see a vid notification from you! 😊 And yes, I hit like before watching everytime. 💕

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much, I appreciate it!! Enjoy the video 🤗💕

[@onimendez7735]

@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you! I've been watching for 3 yrs and enjoy all your content and soothing voice. 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow, thank you for your support all this time!

[@gillianm9367]

I made the decision recently to remove all decorative items from my home except for a couple of vases. I bought a bumper pack of tissue and wrapped all my ceramic objects, photo frames (after removing the photos!), glass ornaments and miscellaneous knick knacks and packed them carefully into 2 large bags for the charity shop. I intend to move next Spring/Summer and wish to take the bare minimum with me when I go so I will be clearing methodically over the next few months. I realised that I my life has moved on recently and now prefer the look of a 'clean and contemporary' home to the 'cosy minimalist' look I favoured before. Cosy minimalist is a good look except I found I was always looking for new ornaments to make me feel happy SO I realised the solution was to remove them all. Keeping my vases allows me to switch up the look by buying fresh flowers as an occasional treat. Now when I visit my favourite shops I can admire the pretty ornaments without feeling the urge to buy. I want each of my rooms to be entirely clutter free so I can begin the next chapter of my life with as little stress as possible. So a good tip for decluttering is to prepare as though you intend to put your house up for sale - even if you aren't! 😊

[@barbarahoffman2626]

Thank you for another inspiring video. I have done a lot of decluttering so far and feel less stressed and happier with each item I have let go, My once small apartment has suddenly become more spacious and open thanks to the lessons and advise you have so eloquently shared!

[@meenaximani9471]

Vera you are my inspiration.. I have started declutter my house long back ,and still the process is going on .

[@olgakari660]

In my experience, back up's of skincare and makeup do make sense and I never in life regretted having them😂🎉

[@SimpleHappyZen]

It helps if we can get our favorites on sale, so sometimes I will stock up on them a little bit as well. But I don't really venture out and get different ones, if I'm still using something that I'm really enjoying. But as with all tips, there's room to make it your own and do things in a way that works for you! :)

[@lsamoa]

I buy multiples of the basic care products I use all the time and don't want to run out of, like shower gel, toothpaste etc. They have a long shelf life and don't take up much space so it makes sense for me to stock up rather than keep having to go to the shop to refill.

[@JaneDoeDoeDeeOhDoe]

@@SimpleHappyZenI like to take advantage of sales on products I use regularly. I usually buy a little more than I think I'll need for a given period of time, so I won't run out and then be desperate to buy more when they're not on sale. It saves me a bit in the end.

[@surendrafed]

Only if you look ugly 😅

[@bumblebee_ms]

Great video Vera, thanks.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much! :)

[@gurbettecayicenadam5389]

Thank you so much ! It was great inspiration

[@Spiritueli]

your correct on that ... gift giving should be done daily. gift, as in, the true valuable gifts, such as your time, your energy, your effort, your care, and so forth. you can not buy these, but you can give them ... as a gift ... anytime

[@adreamclellan6924]

What great tips. Thank you.

[@ardethellis8930]

No, I did not notice a candle. Congratulations for the invitation to present at the virtual conference. I just claimed my free ticket and I look forward to your talk. The all access pass is way more than I need. I went last year and found that there were too many presenters advocating bins and building/buying elaborate storage. That just doesn't work for me. My goal is to reduce my stuff so that it fits in the storage I already own.

[@lizzabbott]

Oooh Vera ! Yay ! Congrats on being invited to be a speaker @ the conference ! My friend Dawn is speaking there & has done so in the past, & I’ve told her about you . Woo hoo !! ( full disclosure : even tho she & I do converse one - on - one online some , & I converse online with her sister as well , when I say she’s my friend, it’s sincere… and she sincerely refers to all her viewers as friends. But relatively speaking, I’m among her viewer friends / not close circle of friends) . Great list of tips, Vera ! So helpful . And the classics are always good reminders. You are looking beautiful … & look how nicely your new home is all set up & cozy ! Wok ! Haha ! I think it’s originally a Chinese word, although it’s made its way into English. Your English is better than some native speakers ! It flows …. is eloquent, relaxed, smart & engaging. Much love from Buffalo , New York USA … on beautiful Lake Erie : one of the Five Great Lakes ! Such a special area ! Lake Erie alone takes about six hours or more to drive from one end to another ! NOT a typo ! Astounding , right ? Oooh dang I dud not notice the candle .

[@andreawales1938]

I didn’t notice the candle and only found out about it when you mentioned it at the end of the video.

[@Matthew8473]

This is an insightful work; reminiscent of a book that was thought-provoking and detailed. "The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Living Guide" by Matthew Cove

[@sandraboose3686]

Congratulations to you! Know you will do great@

[@williamclark1244]

I saw you listed as a speaker when I registered last week for the Get Organized HQ. I'm very excited for you 😃 Regarding the list I do most of what you have on here but #5 can be my struggle. Plants are also my gateway purchase. I can never buy just one. #20 - I love a wish list. It really does keep the spending under control. The portrait was easy to identify: Daenerys Targaryen. It looks great. Thank you for sharing.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah thanks!!! :) See you there! Also glad to hear you enjoyed the list :)

[@artriciagaston1486]

Thanks for saving me from spending money on an LV bag today. I just looked at it two or three times and then told myself (firmly) that I don't need it just because it was on sale. You have helped me change my life in so many ways! Thanks again...

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah that's great!!! You can be proud of yourself, since you're the one who did the work :)

[@sylviakanel9766]

💜Thanks!💜

[@debbiewhitney7289]

Thanks for the great tips! And the candle with the white heart cutouts was so sweet!

[@chillibird2511]

I have one each of my face cream. When that cream has a third left; I check the store each week on the price of a new one. When on sale I buy it. That way I can safe money. I do the donatebin idea too ❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I do that too :) Great way to take advantage of sales

[@lauriep3334]

I’m not a minimalist, but I have been decluttering a lot recently. I want to declutter a lot more items in the next 30 days. I enjoy viewing areas in your new home and many of your tips. How did you and your partner decide on your new color scheme?

[@renehoffman4343]

Nice portrait choice! Mother of Dragons🐉

[@teresaromero8655]

I like your videos about Minimalism !

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Good to hear!! :) Have a great day!

[@skdow]

I really like the last tip - 'Make a Wish List'. Thank you!

[@noemibonfiglio5145]

From a non minimalist, really useful video! I really appreciate your work Vera, send you much love ❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah yay, thank you!! 🤗🌱

[@The-Pink-Checkered-Floor]

CONGRATS on being asked to speak! 🥰 And I enjoyed this video! Thank you!

[@pippyg7747]

I did NOT notice the candle but I went back and it looks so cute!

[@juliapulles697]

Appreciate your thoughtfulness as you share the ideas.

[@SirMopy]

congratulations for speaking at the conference! and also good rules to understand and follow! thank you!

[@jillbeans1573]

Yes. I noticed the candle I wondered if it was new

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for letting me know! :) It's actually soooo old, like maybe 15 years

[@leanna4170]

You asked if we noticed the candle burning--yes, sitting next to the bouquet of flowers. I always notice that little glass lotus flower decoration too. Like you, I really value a minimalist lifestyle. I wonder why some people are the opposite and fill their homes with stuff? Of my own family, I'm the only one who dislikes clutter. I wonder what makes us different?

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's a good question! Different people thrive in different environments I guess? Or it has to do with personality? :) Life experience? Probably all of the above haha

[@sarahmacrae8277]

For some it is growing up in poverty they didn't have even what was needed never mind what they wanted. Others are still poor so if they get rid of something they later need they can't afford to buy it again. Others it's trauma maybe they went through a phase in life where someone else got rid of or destroyed what was precious to them so now they hang on to everything.

[@leanna4170]

Makes sense, @@sarahmacrae8277

[@JaneDoeDoeDeeOhDoe]

Great tips, Vera. Thanks especially for the rule about asking yourself if you'd actually pay for something someone will give you for free. Free stuff is very tempting, but often it just feels like taking on more junk. Congratulations on being invited to speak at the event. You're going to be a hit!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you, that's so sweet 💕🤗 I'm a little nervous for it, so it's nice to hear :)

[@jessykeim]

I love your channel and I love listening to your calm voice, dear Vera! Greetings from Germany ❤

[@sharonshmuel3386]

Hi Vera, yes I noticed the candle 🕯️ very helpful tips & content. Mostly agree with you on all. Your home is looking lovely & your 1st portrait is very good. Have a lovely weekend ❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you!!! :) Have a happy Monday!

[@MistressYumi]

I have a few backups for things I love because it’s nice not to have go through the process of shopping when they wear /runout. 😂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

It helps if we can get our favorites on sale, so sometimes I will stock up on them a little bit as well. But I don't really venture out and get different ones, if I'm still using something that I'm really enjoying. But as with all tips, there's room to make it your own and do things in a way that works for you! :)

[@darrenpierson2650]

I think the headphones made the vacuum much more exciting for you to use!😅 Thanks for the video!

[@autorinmitkatze]

Thank you so much for your guidelines! I am very prone to impulse buying, but I learn. :) Last week I put some washi tapes and bullet journal stuff into my cart and removed it again befor paying for the things I really needed. I try to work with the Wish List and favour "one in, one out" when it comes to books and art supplies (and cat toys ...). Right now I am thinking about selling or donating my guitar, because I never got to learn to play it and now play the ukulele instead. I love your portrait of Danaerys! (OMG, did I spell it the right way?)

[@francineh.7825]

Your first portrait turned out really well!! These are great tips the only one I can't do is the books and plants one haha I'm not even going to try as those are the items that bring me joy. Wardrobe yeah that is on the calendar for another huge declutter. Update...haha I just went to the store and they had a bunch of Boston ferns hanging by the aisle where you go to pay so I grabbed one as I've been wanting to get one. I go to the car to read up on it and the article actually said, "N. Exaltata can can be the gateway plant to a fern addiction." Haha I instantly thought of you and this video😂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha you literally bought a gateway plant then hahaha :) I also love ferns. Don't have them since I heard they can be tricky to take care of?

[@francineh.7825]

@@SimpleHappyZen LOL yeah literally bought one. I'll give it a go, my aunt used to have beautiful Boston ferns and I remember hers when I was young.

[@juliemarkham4332]

Thank you for the free ticket link for the event!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome, enjoy!!!

[@PrincessofErised]

Excellent and that portrait is Game of Thrones - Daenerys

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks you and yay, you recognized her!! 🤗🌷

[@Koki-yy1dm]

Hi Vera, you inspire me a lot.❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you! :) Have a wonderful weekend!

[@heliamartins3378]

Lovely video Vera better and better .,, so inspiring

[@heatherogoussan7984]

I take things that are free so I can donate them to shelter either abusive or homeless.

[@Robert-qm1ld]

The candle is normal and usual for you. We've seen it many times before so probably don't really notice that it is there, like the mirror that used to be in many videos. 🤩😃

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha that's a good point. The lotus candle holder is a staple here 😁

[@SilviaN1]

Oh, I didn´t notice the candle - but I love candles! To me they make a room feel alive - a bit like plants. Maybe a high candle will be more visible in a video 🥰🥰

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for letting me know! :) I think the camera needs to be closer for it to be noticeable... :)

[@elainefell5638]

I noticed your candle at the start of your video and thought it looked lovely 🕯️ 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Nice!!! :) Thanks!!

[@debracampbell9035]

I noticed your candle. I think, cause you were filming in a different room. Always enjoy your channel. Thank you for your tips. Enjoy your day.

[@debbiematthews981]

Great video and yes I saw your candle 🩵

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Debbie!! :)

[@milkaryg1251]

Great advices, thank you Vera ❤

[@peggybelcher4679]

Congratulations!

[@natalialenchuk1759]

I like decluttered space in my house so much more than what it looked like before. But one thing bothers me - decluttering seems to become (as a trend) more like a permanent process rather than a one-time action. And while a look 'here-and-there' for things that are rubbish or broken or used up is quite natural, decluttering constantly is more like an obsession (no offence to anyone, please) because we have purchased this item with some intention, why getting rid of it purely for decluttering purposes? Just thinking. Thanks to Vera for yet another calm and clear contemplation of necessary things and really useful tips.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I agree decluttering shouldn't be just 'for the heck of it'. In a perfect world, we would buy everything intentionally and with purpose, so we never have to declutter. But in practice there will always be some changes, nothing is permanent, and decluttering will be an ongoing process, albeit with little 'trickles' instead of huge purges

[@alisonarthurs4317]

I did notice the candle! 😊

[@sushmita4713]

I follow most of these rules daily. I am a natural minimalist who knew

[@TheLynneRowland]

Your Voice is soo relaxing ❤😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you! :)

[@helen1859]

Great video Vera. I'm moving house soon and these tips are very helpful. 🏡

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you Helen!! Good luck and wishing you all the best with the move!!!

[@peggymann925]

You always have great tips, and congrats on the upcoming speaking event with the other speakers. And yes! I noticed the candle, thanks for it!

[@louiseanne830]

Wanted to come see how you're getting on in your new home 🏡 hope you're well, Vera!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you!! Yes doing well 🤗🌱🍵 Will post some more updates soon 😊❤

[@louiseanne830]

@@SimpleHappyZen Aww 🥰 thanks for taking the time to reply ❤️ That's fab, and hope you're getting some rest after the move too! ☺️

[@eckehareckbert2731]

For gift giving, I am starting to give something consumables so when used/done they will disregard the items, instead of keeping them for longer time. I've been buying consumables too that we need like personal care or food or household products that on sale, esp if half price, in minimal number coz I saved money instead of buying when finished be desparate or shock with price when badly needed, example my laundry liquid is $22 on regular but found out ysday 11$ so i bought 1 even i still have 1. I already decluttered majority but I struggle with my plants

[@Nila0608]

Vera, the candle wasn't that visible until you mentioned it that I went back to see it. I was more focussed on the plant vase and it's hues🩷 Even I love to see candle setup in videos. I suggest you experiment with a different setup next time 😊 Thanks for the video and tips🤍

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for letting me know! :) I think the camera needs to be closer for it to be noticeable

[@user-dl4cu8vu1s]

Your right I have two much. Lotions Soap And perfume I’m going to use up all of it

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes! Let's do a 'use it up' challenge :)

[@scheila8643]

Congratulations ❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much :) Have a happy Monday!

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Hi Vera you have some great tips.Thank you so much. I try to practice mindfulness on all areas of my life especially when it comes to buying stuff. By the way my husband and I thought you did an excellent job on your self portrait Sending hugs. ❤❤❤❤

[@Spitzy-TheDramaLlama]

A great video as always, Vera. ❤ Did not notice the candle the first time, sorry. 😬

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha no worries!! :) I think the camera needs to be closer for it to be noticeable

[@user-ei8rb7sj6c]

So many great tips and reminders I plan to incorporate! There is one single use item I love-my boiled egg slicer. I add eggs to salads frequently and find it so much easier to slice the eggs this way. Hmm….maybe I should see if there’s something else it could be used for…😀

[@honeyteababy]

May be helpful for slicing mushrooms?

[@tesssmith5548]

Just be careful - my dad used the egg slicer on something a bit harder and mangled the slicer completely! Anyway, the egg slicer may be single use, but it's also potentially something you use a lot!

[@honeyteababy]

@@tesssmith5548 That’s a good point!

[@CeresIsABetterPlanetThanPluto]

I got a strawberry slicer as a gift and thought to myself "this is going straight in the goodwill box" --- but then I actually end up using it at least once a month. So I can appreciate that perfectly uniform slices *are* extremely satisfying and totally earns its keep in my kitchen. Basically, rules of thumb can also be devluttered if they arent serving you 😜

[@ingramota1191]

Excelent video! Every day you get better! Sorry, i dont see the candle because is small and the light dont let show well (for me that whatch in cellphone). Big hug from a brazilian that lives in Portugal ♡

[@pinkroses135]

#11 is the secret to getting your home to run like a well oiled machine. Very helpful tips.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Glad you enjoyed that one!! :)

[@mommyaysa3072]

Thank you for the idea